Despite complexity and controversy, the latest round of talks on the draft exploitation regulations for commercial deep-sea mining delivered progress on test and pilot mining, regional environmental management plans, and anti-monopolization, among other provisions. Delegates also improved their understanding of effective control and underwater cultural heritage.

The Earth Negotiations Bulletin (ENB) summary report of the meeting outlines the ISA’s unique mandate – to “organize, regulate, and control” all mineral resource-related activities in the Area (the seabed and ocean floor and the subsoil thereof, beyond the limits of national jurisdiction) “for the benefit of humankind as a whole.”

Regulating deep-sea mining, which requires “a holistic framework for protecting and preserving the marine environment as mandated by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS),” is a tall order, ENB notes. It is further compounded by complex issues around: mining contracts and contractors, plans of work, and sponsoring states; other activities in the marine environment; safety standards and emergency plans; inspection, compliance and enforcement; review and dispute settlement; royalties, fees, and profit margins; and benefit-sharing for humankind.

In addition, there are scientific uncertainties surrounding deep-sea marine ecosystems and risks associated with commercial deep-sea mining. These have led an increasing number of ISA members and observers – 46 countries as of the conclusion of the second part of the ISA’s 31st annual session – to call for a moratorium or precautionary pause until knowledge gaps are filled and informed decision making is possible. Other ISA members “have shown a strong interest in commercial deep-sea mining, expressing concerns over delays in the finalization of the regulatory framework,” ENB notes.

While ISA members were unanimous in showing support for the ISA’s exclusive mandate to regulate deep-sea mining in areas beyond national jurisdiction, there were discussions on requesting advisory opinions from the Seabed Disputes Chamber of the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) on the potential legal implications of activities outside the UNCLOS framework, the ENB analysis of the meeting highlights.

The ISA Council convened for the second part of its 31st session in Kingston, Jamaica, from 13-24 July 2026. The ISA Assembly took place from 27-31 July 2026. [ENB Coverage of Second Part of ISA’s 31st Annual Session]